Congress Denounce BJP for Misconduct in IIOJK
August 23, 2024Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has sharply criticized the BJP’s handling of Indian-illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) since the abrogation of Article 370. Speaking at a press conference in Srinagar, Kharge questioned the BJP’s promises of peace and prosperity for the region.
Kharge challenged the BJP’s assertions that removing Article 370 would end violence and foster economic growth. He highlighted worsening conditions in the region, including rising unemployment, inflation, and persistent violence.
The Congress leader accused the BJP of failing to deliver on its pre-election promises, calling their assurances “jumla,” or empty rhetoric. According to Kharge, the party’s claims have not materialized, leaving the region in a more dire state.
Since the BJP revoked Article 370 in August 2019, IIOJK was downgraded to a Union Territory, losing significant democratic representation. Kharge pointed out the absence of key democratic institutions such as the Legislative Council, Panchayats, and Municipalities. He argued that these changes have stripped the people of their rights and isolated them from democratic processes.
Kharge also addressed the upcoming Assembly elections in IIOJK. He attributed the scheduling of these elections to a Supreme Court directive mandating polls by September 30. The Congress President reaffirmed his party’s commitment to collaborating with other secular forces to restore peace and address the region’s issues.
Kharge’s comments reflect growing frustration with the BJP’s approach and a broader call for renewed focus on resolving the challenges facing IIOJK.